Domain 3: Instruction

One of the biggest things affecting communication is vocabulary. it is good to challenge students sometimes and to teach them new words, but clarity is most important. Language must be accessible to students.

Communication goes both ways; teachers must listen to understand, not just to reply or start to reply based on what they expect a question to be.

Teachers should let students make connections themselves by encouraging reflection.

Discussion is not direct instruction; teachers must give up some of the control they are used to having and allow students to lead discussion. Following their interests often promotes the most insightful and engaged responses from the students.

Teachers should challenge themselves to say less. Set the stage then step off it for students to lead.

Wait time is the other key to successful discussion: students need time to understand what is being asked before they can respond. Teachers should also give time for students to reflect on the discussion so they can evaluate whether they agreed or disagreed with what was said.

Teachers must differentiate instruction. This is done by knowing your students and what works for them as individuals. Grouping can also help with differentiation, but it must be done mindfully, according to the learning goals.

Engagement requires structure and good pacing. Another way to promote engagement is by giving students choices in the learning activities.

Teachers must promote a positive environment where wrong answers are okay so that students can engage without anxiety or fear of judgement.

Teachers must assess student learning early and often in the learning process; assessment is the "finger on the pulse" of a lesson.

Assessment gives both the teacher and the students feedback on the learning process. Thus, results can be used by teachers to better plan future instruction, and feedback must also be given to students to help them learn more efficiently. Teachers must give specific, timely, student driven feedback based on their work.

Teachers should also promote self-assessment among their students during their learning.

A good environment is key: students need to be comfortable in sharing honest progress or confusion with the teacher. Teachers must also be receptive to what the students are showing them in their behaviors and adjust their teaching accordingly. This process requires patience and attentiveness on the part of the teacher.

Teachers should be able to adjust on the fly by taking advantage of teachable moments, going back to review material as needed, and be prepared with back-up plans in case students finish early or something goes wrong.

Teachers should always be on the lookout for new ideas - especially from students, since they know their interests and learning preferences best.